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RNLI standards for crewing and training are very high, and their equipment is top-notch. They have years'-long waiting lists for applicants. (That's at least true in the regions in the South with which I'm familiar. Not sure about elsewhere in the country.) They're an incredible organization that I think should receive more attention than they do.

Source: sailed a bit along the Solent, and got to know some RNLI crew and hopefuls. Have been aboard RNLI rescue craft, and was fortunate enough to ride along on a demonstration runs.